Wanaka Heli-Skiing for the Advanced Skier

Advanced skiers from around the world come to Wanaka every ski season to enjoy the thrill, excitement and exhilaration of free skiing in the Southern Alps and Mount Aspiring National Park in Wanaka, located on the South Island of New Zealand. .

What is heli-skiing?

Heliskiing is off-piste; back country, alpine skiing accessed by helicopter, not chairlift or snowmobile. It represents freedom and exciting adventure for skiers and snowboarders. There are no crowds or lines like at a ski resort, but pristine untouched natural snow and long, steep slopes. Wanaka’s Mount Aspiring National Park and the mountainous terrain of the South Lakes offer a variety of open bowls and valleys to drops and steep faces.

Powder skis are recommended to get the most out of free skiing. Clothing requirements are similar to ski resorts: layered clothing suitable for sub-zero temperatures, goggles, hat, ski gloves, and neck warmers.

Why is Heli-Skiing recommended for intermediate/advanced skiers?

This style of skiing requires skiers to be able to handle all types of terrain such as long descents; contours and natural features of the terrain, and also be able to go down the hill in all possible snow conditions. Snow conditions can range from powdery snow or corn, to the most difficult snow, such as brittle crust from the wind. Heli-ski operators will find the best high altitude and dry powder adventure runs for you to test your snow skills. Advanced skiers and snowboarders can get 6-8 runs as part of a package, specifically tailored to their skill level and personal goals.

The biggest risk and main safety concern for heli-ski operators is avalanche danger. All accredited heli-ski operations will employ guides and pilots who are professionally trained and highly experienced in assessing snow conditions, snow stability, and risk management. Many operators will outfit you with shovels, sondes and an avalanche transceiver and show you how to operate it.

If you are a confident skier and have planned to visit Wanaka this ski season, why not try heli skiing? Some tour operators you may be interested in include Backcountry Helicopters NZ and Southern Lakes Heliski. Experience the magic for yourself this winter.